Grace Mugabe testifies in theft trial

Former First Lady Grace Mugabe broke down in court on Wednesday after glimpsing the belongings of long-time ruler Robert Mugabe. New Zimbabwe reports that the items were shown during her former employees' theft trial at the Harare Magistrate's Court. Tendai Nyamudze, Allen Chinamonya, Danmore Chinamonya, Samson Karonga and Brighton Bunganirwa allegedly stole valuables including an old plated table fork, a coffee table book, a discussion paper from a SADC meeting, and a collection of handbags and other personal effects. The total value of these items, according to Grace, is approximately $3.5m, significantly higher than the $500 000 listed in court papers. When court resumed, Grace said she became aware of the alleged theft in 2022, after returning from Singapore, when her brother, Winston Marufu, informed her of the situation, leading to a police report. She strongly disputed claims made by the defendants that the items were gifts from her husband.